“Say And Do” Conflict Causes News Headlines

These are not the kind of headlines your company wants to see. A huge law firm based in my area — Tampa Bay — recently made the news twice. Seems that a newly promoted Chief Operating Partner was accused (and reprimanded for) sexual harrassment.

Oops. How many times have I said the leadership must act the way they talk? What will people believe? They will believe what you do, not what you say. This company has quickly lost much of its credibility with this one action.

Want the details? You can read the stories from the local paper.

H&K’s handling sets a troubling standard
Firm promotes lawyer after reprimand

Update 4/1/05: The firm in question has demoted the lawyer who’s situation was at the root of this conflict. The right thing to do? Yes. But the promotion should never have happened in the first place.